I have had an interest in photography my whole life, having studied it in school and maintaining that interest while pursuing my art and design career. However after my career path shifted more towards web design and development, I found I did not have the time to commit to photography. All of that changed however when digital became mainstream, and I found myself itching to shoot again. Before long, I purchased a 10D and 28-135 IS lens, and would go out to shoot every chance I got. Landscapes, nature, wildlife (from very far away), you name it. It all gave me the opportunity to enjoy all that nature has to offer.

As I started to get more serious about my photography, I realized that some of my equipment was not suitable enough, and I slowly upgraded as I could. It was also around that same period that I joined the Nature and Wildlife Photographer's of Long Island and also began logging on to web forums such as PhotoMigrations. During this time, I have not only had the opportunity to meet and work side by side with some very talented photographers, whom I have built friendships with. Although I enjoy all sorts of outdoor photography, my concentration has been on wildlife and avian photography, and I have learned one of the most important aspects of this avenue is to know your subject. Although it may sound basic, it is probably the most important element, as without it, there is a good chance you may not get the shot you are after, no matter how long of a lens you are shooting with. Sometimes I have had better results with a shorter lens, simply because I did not intimidate a bird or subject with my 500mm Canon (I too would probably take off if something ten times the size of me came within inches or feet of me). However as you learn and get to know your subjects, their surroundings and habitat, it soon becomes second nature on how to plan your approach.

Although I do not currently shoot full time, some long term aspirations include building a diverse portfolio for eventual stock submission or print sales, as well as planning and leading photo workshops in Ireland and Western Europe. Having been to Ireland many times (and being of Irish descent), I have relished the challenges the unpredictable weather offers, and try to capitalize on it, capturing a unique moment as the sun breaks through the clouds from the tumultuous skies just as the storm clears. There is an old Irish adage that says "If you don't like the weather in Ireland, wait fifteen minutes". I have found it to ring true quite often, however, there are those moments where it might take a few hours or even a day or two to clear. But in the end, it is usually worth it, as you can witness phenomenal landscapes with an interplay of light like no other place on earth offers.

Gear: I currently shoot with a Canon 20D with an assortment of lenses that include both primes and zooms. However, the equipment I use most often includes: 17-40L, 100-400L IS, 500F4 IS, 580EX flash with Better Beamer, Canon 1.4 II, Canon 2X II, and a Gitzo 1228MK2 modified with a 555B Manfrotto leveling column, topped off with a RRS BH55 ballhead. For my longer lenses I usually supplement the setup with a Wimberly Sidekick. Although a ways off, I look forward to the next iteration of the 1D series body and what it will have to offer us nature and wildlife photographers.

Goals for Photography: In addition to some of the aspirations mentioned above, some goals are as follows: My primary goal whenever I pick up my camera is to always enjoy myself. Second, I'd like to pass on to others what I've learned from so many helpful friends and colleagues.

Images:

Editor's Comment: Let us know what you think! Please email the Editor to let us know your thoughts.